[Dixielandjazz] Bob Wilber & Bourbon Street Band instrumentation.

[Stephen G Barbone]

Ted wrote in part: I am fortunate to have 2 CDs of these two fine  
groups . . . but in each case the instrumentation is missing a key  
player - Bob's band performs at the Smithsonian minus a trombone - a  
very hot performance mostly on Soprano Sax. The band has the standard  
Dixieland instrumentation - anyone know why?

Dear Ted:

Don't know for sure, however below is my 2 cents.

Wilber is a multifaceted jazz clarinetist, not limited to Dixieland.  
Could be he wanted to play small band swing, or be less encumbered by  
a formulaic Dixieland. (That's why he left Condon 60 years ago) He has  
made many records over 50+ years with quintets that are close to, but  
do not have standard Dixieland instrumentation. Also if the record was  
a tribute to Bechet, it could be that he was faithfully following  
Bechet's instrumentation choice which sometimes eliminated the  
trombone. Like one neat version of Tiger Rag where Bechet does not use  
a trombone. (Bill Haesler, what the heckBill Haesler makes the growl  
sound on that record?)

Ted also asked about a Trumpet / Trombone / Banjo / Tuba, format for  
the Bourbon Street Band. This 4 piece version of Dixieland Lite  
( Sometimes Clarinet with either one of the brass above, or Guitar and  
Double Bass in place of banjo tuba) is often seen when budgets and or  
space preclude using a full band. Most often used at store openings,  
assisted living facilities, small parties, etc. Maybe Bourbon Street  
wanted to record that particular sound.

Cheers,
Steve Barbone
www.myspace.com/barbonestreetjazzband